Survey Finds High Burnout Among Women in Tech, With AI Adding Pressure
A new report from Ensono finds that 87% of surveyed women in tech report burnout, with AI, visibility, and constant availability cited as contributing factors.
A survey of 1,500 women working in technology has found that burnout is widespread, with 87% of respondents saying they are experiencing it. The 2026 Speak Up report, conducted by Ensono, also found that over half of the women surveyed consider themselves moderately, very, or extremely burned out.
The report highlights artificial intelligence as a new source of pressure. While 70% of respondents rate their AI knowledge and skills as advanced or expert, and 97% can identify at least one career benefit from using the technology, AI also contributes to burnout. According to the survey, 42% of women feel that using AI comes with an expectation to produce more work in less time.
Other factors add to the strain. Thirty-four percent of respondents feel pressure to be always available for work, and 43% are focused on constantly developing new skills. Additionally, 83% aspire to executive leadership roles, which the report suggests creates pressure to succeed and to be seen doing so.
Meredith Graham, Ensono’s Chief People Officer, said in a statement: “Women in technology are developing the AI expertise their organizations need, but continued learning takes time to adjust. With skills confidence continuing to grow, business leaders need to provide clarity on how AI adoption changes work expectations.”
Graham added: “As roles evolve, supporting flexibility and different paths to advancement that help women build lasting careers is fundamental to strengthening business culture.”
The findings suggest that while AI can boost productivity, it may also intensify demands on workers. The report indicates that employers could do more to prevent burnout by setting clearer expectations and supporting flexible work arrangements.
As the use of AI continues to spread in the workplace, the survey points to a need for organizations to consider how new tools affect workload and employee well-being. The pressures identified—AI expectations, constant availability, and the drive for visibility—are challenges that, according to the report, can be mitigated with appropriate workplace policies.
This story was originally reported by TechRadar.
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